Gazette Sports QA: Bridgewater-Raynham's Shay Bollin

Steve Sanchez Gazette Sports Editor @Chezsports

Saturday

Mar 16, 2019 at 5:42 PM

It was a great first season for Bridgewater-Raynham's Shay Bollin.

The freshman center led the Trojans in numerous offensive and defensive categories, including points (382), points per game (16.6), field goals made (149), free throws made (33), 3-point field goals made (51), rebounds (192) and blocked shots (53).

Bollin was named Old Colony League Player of the Year after leading B-R to a 19-1 regular season record, a berth in the South sectional semifinal and 21-2 mark overall.

She was recently invited to attend the USA U16 National Team tryouts in June.

The Taunton Daily Gazette Sports department recently asked Bollin some questions to get to know her better:

TG: Who is your favorite sports hero?

SB: Larry Bird.

TG: What age were you when you started your sport?

SB: I started playing basketball at 6 years old.

TG: What is the best part about competing?

SB: I love competing because in my mind, losing is not an option. I enjoy playing the best competition possible. While I compete all my practice and preparing comes together and I can just leave it all out there every game! I know I'm putting the work in, so there isn't anything or anyone to fear.

TG: What emotions do you feel when you do well?

SB: There is no better feeling than after a big-time game. It's a rush of adrenaline and always so much fun.

TG: How does being an athlete make you a better person?

SB: Being a competitive athlete has molded me into the person I am today. It's taught me how hard work pays off, how to manage my time wisely, how to treat people with respect despite a big win/ tough loss, how to be a leader and make good decisions for my future.

TG: What is your favorite song to listen to prior to competing?

SB: "Champion," by Kayne West.

TG: What is your favorite movie about sports?

SB: "Love & Basketball," directed by Gina Prince BytheWood.

TG: What do you do to calm your butterflies while you compete?

SB: I think of butterflies as my adrenaline flowing — it's why I play the game I love. I am prepared for whatever I'm faced with. I know to be the kind of player I plan to be, I need to be always ready for whatever the other team throws at me. I'm always confident and believe in my teammates as well, so it's a calm that keeps me focused and steady through every game.

TG: What is your favorite food to eat the night before a big competition?

SB: I typically eat chicken and mashed potatoes the night before big games.

TG: What one word describes you?

SB: Relentless.

If you’d liked to profile an athlete or coach, email ssanchez@tauntongazette.com

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